Maurice Kesonga Nsele | Economy | Best Paper Award

Assist.Prof.Dr.Maurice Kesonga Nsele| Economy | Best Paper Award

Post-doctoral researcher at University of Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dr. Maurice Kesonga Nsele  is a distinguished post-doctoral researcher at the University of Lubumbashi  and an associate professor at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. He earned his Ph.D.  in Agricultural Sciences and Biological Engineering from the University of Liège, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech , specializing in rural economics and development. Currently affiliated with the Regional Postgraduate School of Integrated Management and Development of Tropical Forests and Territories, his research spans sustainable rural development , agricultural value chains , and socio-economic dynamics in biodiversity-rich regions . With an enduring commitment to addressing challenges in Congo’s agricultural sector, he integrates academic rigor with field-based realities to create practical, community-driven solutions . His contributions to rural livelihoods, environmental conservation , and policy analysis mark him as a dedicated scientist and academic leader.  He is a promising candidate for international awards celebrating innovation, research excellence, and socio-environmental impact .

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education & Experience 

Dr. Nsele’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in Agricultural Sciences, culminating in a Ph.D.  From the prestigious University of Liège, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, Belgium . His doctoral research focused on rural development and economic systems, preparing him for a multidimensional academic and research career . He is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Regional Postgraduate School for Integrated Tropical Forest Management  and serves as an associate professor at the University of Lubumbashi . With over a decade of academic engagement , he has supervised research, published articles, and participated in key development projects focused on community-based conservation, sustainable farming , and economic transformation. His work is well-regarded both nationally and internationally , reflecting his ability to merge theoretical knowledge with grassroots implementation . This rich blend of education and field experience positions him as an expert in sustainable agronomy, rural transformation, and forest-territory development .

Professional Development 

Dr. Maurice Nsele’s professional development reflects his continuous dedication to rural transformation and sustainable agricultural practices . Through his postdoctoral research at a regional postgraduate institute for tropical forest management , he deepened his expertise in environmental sustainability, conservation strategy, and policy analysis . He actively participates in academic collaborations, research networks, and developmental projects that engage communities in resource conservation . His project on the conservation of historical rubber plantations in Sankuru Province underscores his ability to connect scientific research with cultural heritage and economic resilience 🌱. Dr. Nsele has contributed to peer-reviewed journals  and maintains a presence on platforms like ORCID and ResearchGate for academic transparency and collaboration . As a thought leader and educator, he fosters interdisciplinary research and trains future agricultural scientists . His trajectory shows consistent professional growth, marked by real-world impact, international collaboration , and knowledge dissemination for sustainable development goals .

Research Focus 

Dr. Nsele’s research focus lies at the intersection of sustainable rural development, agricultural economics, and tropical forest conservation . He specializes in the analysis of agricultural value chains  and economic structures in regions with rich natural potential, particularly in Central Africa . His work addresses community-based conservation, emphasizing participatory methods to preserve biodiversity while enhancing rural livelihoods . The project on rubber plantation conservation in Sankuru Province highlights his approach to integrating socio-cultural and environmental dynamics. He also investigates economy policies that influence agricultural productivity and land-use management . With a deep understanding of development economy, Dr. Nsele contributes to strategic planning and the formulation of policies aimed at equitable resource distribution and long-term sustainability . His research aligns with global priorities such as climate-resilient agriculture, food security, and eco-governance, making his work invaluable to both academia and development agencies .

Awards and Honors 

Although specific awards are not yet listed, Dr. Maurice Nsele is a strong candidate for prestigious recognitions such as the Best Researcher Award , Agronomy Innovation Award 🌿, and Sustainable Agriculture Award . His academic achievements, such as earning a Ph.D. from the University of Liège , and his impactful research on rubber plantations and agricultural economics , demonstrate excellence worthy of international acclaim. His publications in indexed journals , leadership roles in university research programs , and collaborations with international institutions  reflect a high level of scholarly integrity and innovation. Dr. Nsele’s postdoctoral engagement in integrated forest and territory management  underlines his commitment to interdisciplinary excellence. He also qualifies for recognitions like Multidisciplinary Agriculture Award, Research Excellence in Crops, and University Research Star Award . As his work gains further visibility, it is expected he will attract both national and global accolades for research impact and innovation .

Publication of Top Notes

1.Title: Community Perceptions and Determinants of the Sustained Conservation of Historical Rubber Plantations in the Lomela and Lodja Territories, Sankuru Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Authors: Maurice Kesonga Nsele, Serge Shakanye Ndjadi, Charles Mumbere Musavandalo, Désiré Numbi Mujike, Israël Muchiza Bachinyaga, John Tshomba Kalumbu, Eli       Mwishingo Mutwedu, Joël Mobunda Tiko, Séraphin Irenge Murhula, François Tshamba Y’onyowokoma et al.
 Year: 2025
  Journal: Conservation
  DOI: 10.3390/conservation5030033

2.Title: Conditions d’acceptabilité des pratiques innovantes par les maraîchers urbains de Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo

Author: Maurice Kesonga Nsele
 Year: 2024
 Type: Dissertation/Thesis

3. Title: Unraveling the Role of Informal Mutual Aid Networks in Maintaining Urban Farms in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo

Authors: Maurice Kesonga Nsele, Thomas Dogot, Kevin Maréchal
Year: 2023
 Journal: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
 DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2023.1248937

4. Title: Factors Influencing the Sustained Adoption of Innovative Techniques by Urban Farmers in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo

Authors: Maurice Kesonga Nsele, Jules Nkulu Mwine Fyama, Kevin Maréchal, Thomas Dogot
Year: 2022
 Journal: Agriculture
 DOI: 10.3390/agriculture12081157

5 .Title: Understanding the Roles of Street Vendors of Agricultural Commodities during the COVID-19 Outbreak in the Informal Economy

 Author: Maurice Kesonga Nsele
 Year: 2020
 Journal: Journal of Social Sciences
 DOI: 10.4236/jss.2020.89008
6. Title: Pesticide Use Practices by Chinese Cabbage Growers in Suburban Environment of Lubumbashi (DR Congo): Main Pests, Costs and Risks
 Author: Maurice Kesonga Nsele
 Year: 2019
 Journal: Journal of Applied Agricultural Economics and Policy Analysis
 DOI: 10.12691/jaaepa-2-1-8
7. Title: Characterization of Household Wastes in D.R. Congo, a Case Study of Lubumbashi

 Author: Maurice Kesonga Nsele
 Year: 2017
 Journal: American Journal of Environmental Sciences
 DOI: 10.3844/ajessp.2017.277.288

Conclusion 

Dr. Maurice Kesonga Nsele’s research is a benchmark in sustainable and community-oriented environmental science, particularly in understudied contexts like Central Africa. His papers provide original data, innovative frameworks, and socially grounded analysis, making them highly suitable for Best Paper Awards.

Prof Franklyn Lisk | Development Economics | Excellence in Research

Prof Franklyn Lisk | Development Economics | Excellence in Research

Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Africa) at University of Warwick, UK , United Kingdom

Professor Franklyn Lisk is a distinguished development economist and policy adviser with over 50 years of professional experience. His technical skills include expertise in international political economy and development policy. He has significant teaching experience across various universities globally, emphasizing professional development through partnerships with African institutions. Notably, his top publications include key works in leading academic journals.

Profile

ORCID

Education 🎓

Professor Lisk earned his PhD in Economics from the University of Birmingham, UK, where he began his academic career as a lecturer in development economics in 1973.

Professional Experience 🏢

Currently, he is the Academic Director for Africa at the University of Warwick, UK, and a Professor of International Political Economy of African Development and Global Health Governance. Previously, he held various significant roles at the International Labour Organisation (ILO), including Senior Economist and Director. He is also a co-founder of the Center for Research on Political Economy (CREPOL) in Dakar and a visiting professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Research Interests 🔍

Professor Lisk’s research focuses on international political economy, development economics, and global health governance, with a specific emphasis on African development policies and practices.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Professor Lisk has been recognized for his contributions to development economics and policy advisory, although specific awards are not detailed in the biodata.

Top Noted Publications📖

  • The Political Economy of HIV/AIDS in Africa. Global Health Action.(2013)
  • Employment and Labour Market Policies in Africa. African Journal of Economic Policy.(2009)
  • Globalization and Development in Africa: An Overview. Journal of African Economies.(2007)
  • The Role of International Organizations in African Development. Development Policy Review.(2005)
  •  HIV/AIDS and the World of Work: The ILO’s Global Programme. International Labour Review.(2004)

Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina A&T State University , United States

Stephen Prah is a passionate researcher and educator specializing in agribusiness and applied economics. Currently pursuing a PhD at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, he has garnered extensive experience in teaching, research, and project management across multiple continents. With a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development, Stephen aims to leverage his skills in data analysis and policy evaluation to enhance food security and agricultural practices.

Profile

google scholar

Education

Stephen holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management (First Class Honours) and a Master of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He is currently working towards a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Agribusiness and Applied Economics at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, with an expected completion date in 2028. He has also completed various certifications, including a Certificate in First Aid from the Technical University of Berlin.

Experience

Stephen has served in various academic and research roles, including as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST. His practical experience includes project management roles at Holland Greentech Company Limited, where he successfully trained over 1,000 farmers in sustainable horticulture practices. He has also been involved in numerous community projects focused on renewable energy and agricultural innovation.

Professional Experience

  • Regional Operations Manager (2023)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Developed sales strategies and maintained customer relations.
  • Agronomist (2021-2022)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Conducted training for farmers on sustainable practices.

Awards

Stephen has received several accolades for his academic and professional contributions, including the Graduate Teaching Assistantship Award at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Award for a fully funded internship in Germany. He was also honored with the Best Graduate Student Award from the International Association of Agriculture Students (IAAS) at KNUST in 2023.

Publication Top Notes : Agricultural Economics

  • Hand pollination, mass spraying, and hybrid seedlings: Examines how these technologies influence the welfare of smallholder cocoa farmers, highlighting both economic and social impacts.
  • Impact of women groundnut farmers’ participation in VSLA: Investigates how involvement in Village Savings and Loans Associations enhances financial security and empowerment among women farmers in Northern Ghana.
  • Agricultural policy intervention on maize farmers: Analyzes the effects of the Planting for Food and Jobs program on yield and profitability, providing insights into policy effectiveness.
  • Gender differences in rice value chain: Explores how gender influences trait preferences among stakeholders in Ghana’s rice sector, emphasizing the need for inclusive approaches.
  • Adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies: Identifies determinants affecting farmers’ adoption of technologies and their subsequent impact on maize yields and income.
  • Input credit scheme and food security: Evaluates the relationship between credit access, farm productivity, and food security among smallholder rice farmers in Northeast Ghana.
  • Access to resources in rice-breeding activities: Investigates the role of gender in resource access and participation in rice-breeding, suggesting avenues for enhancing women’s involvement.
  • Promoting climate-smart technologies using digital services: Discusses the role of digital advisory services in encouraging the adoption of climate-smart practices among maize farmers.
  • Cocoa hand pollination and farmer welfare: Assesses whether adopting cocoa hand pollination practices improves farmers’ welfare, offering evidence from smallholders.
  • Drivers of agricultural land shift to mining: Explores factors leading farmers to shift from crop production to mining, highlighting challenges to sustainable agriculture in Ghana.